I absolutely love your style, Marty! You have such a knack for mixing the warmth of traditional with trendy - your home looks so inviting and comfy, and the pops of color are so fun. I'm kind of stuck in neutral mode with my decor at the moment, and you're giving me the courage to step outside my comfort zone. Thanks so much!

I am traditional, but I like a fresh twist in fabric or accessories too. I still tend to use my older "collected" treasures too. Some are sentimental and some cost so much that I feel I need to use them for eternity. Ha! But I love a field trip to TJM or HG for a cute bargin. Love it. Sheila

Marty,I'm not sure I can say that my home stays updated as much as I try to keep it maintained. In the last six years, I replaced the microwave, dishwasher, garbage disposal, hot water heater, the upstairs heat pump/AC, all of the skylights, sidewalks, damaged siding, and the stovetop. Currently, all of the decks are being replaced. That hasn't left much in the budget for decor items, but I have painted baseboards, moved around decor, added a new mirror over the living room fireplace, recovered the breakfast room chairs, recovered the sofa, recovered a living room side chair, added a few new pillows, and replaced my master bath mirror with one from my mother's house. With every change, I looked at ways to add a French country feel.

Love your style, Miss Marty! You keep things looking fresh without following a trend. I have been in homes that were very expensive and expensively decorated but were very messy and actually dirty. Your home always looks immaculate without being cold and stiff.

I love your tradtional style! I especially love your sofa! I would love white furniture but not in my house! LOL! It would be dirty everyday. Maybe someday but not now. I love Hobby Lobby too! Your home is just beautiful!

Marty,Your home is lovely, dear friend!!!I still lean towards the more Traditional Timeless Classic Style,but I adore how you step out with a "touch" of current and trendy!!!A gorgeous blend of accessories with Traditional furnishings!!!Thank you for sharing and inspiring!!!Fondly,Pat

Marty, with this post you hit the nail on the head. I've been coming to your blog for months and admiring your gorgeous rooms, without quite being sure what it was that made them so special, Well now you have explained it for us. Thanks so much for taking the time to show us this neat idea.

I love and admire your style, Marty. You put it all together so attractively! I have too many years invested in the look of country and heirloom pieces to change my decor, now! I will always enjoy "ooohing" over your decor!JP

About Me

Hi, I'm Marty. Welcome - Moving back closer to family finds us transforming our "Builder Basic" into a home that reflects our lifestyle. Careful planning, tons of DIY and a sharp eye for design can turn any house into your dream even if you have a small budget. I share it all, the successes and failures. We love to entertain so you'll find a few tried and true recipes and entertaining ideas too.